Author Topic: Replacing engine: Different between '93 M42 and '95 M42 (Read 2157 times)

redrocket328 · « **on:** January 21, 2013, 12:58:30 PM »

Hey guys,
So I'm having some major issues with the cooling of my 1993 318is. I've done major head work and still having issues so thinking about just replacing the entire engine to save the headache.

I found a M42 out of an early '95 318ti. Complete engine, tranny, harness and everything. I ran the VIN and confirmed it is a M42. According to real OEM, the part number for the engine is 110 090 6 64 91 which is a little bit different than the part number that is showing up for my car 110 090 6 53 89 . Both car confirmed to be M42's.

Question is:
Does any one know the differences between these two motors? Can I drop the '95 318ti motor into my car fairly easily? Anything I need to change?

Thanks.

MLM · « **Reply #1 on:** January 21, 2013, 02:45:14 PM »

There are no major differences which will stop you. Things which have changed shouldnt impact a swap eg valve stem diameter, rocker cover breather position.

redrocket328 · « **Reply #2 on:** January 21, 2013, 03:00:16 PM »

Great. Should I be able to just take the new engine, already connected with wiring harness from '95 m42 and ECU from M42 and just drop it into the '93 body? Really what I am trying to ask is, will the '95 Engine Harness connect to the '93 body without any sort of modification?

MLM · « **Reply #3 on:** January 21, 2013, 05:38:56 PM »

Yes I believe it will, though you may find it easier to just unplug your current engine and just swap that as removing the loom to replace it is an extra job for no gain, also eliminates the risk of crossed wires.